BERLIN: The German carmaker is focusing to introduce a hyper-luxurious variant of its full-size SUV, the GL-Class. Since Mercedes-Benz has already vowed to change its models’ names for a better clarity, the GL-Class will be renamed GLS following its mid-cycle facelift at the end of 2015.
The next Maybach-branded model from Stuttgart is likely to be called Mercedes-Maybach GLS500. Some unsubstantiated reports suggest that the GLS may get the twin-turbocharged V-12 instead of the V-8 though, which would obviously transform the “500” into a “600.” Either way, it is not the new name that will leave the biggest impression. Instead, the big news will be just how opulent this rig will be. Mercedes-Benz wants to pit against the upcoming Bentley Bentayga, which not be an easy feat.
Judging by the amount of upgrades that the S-Class has received to be worthy of the Mercedes-Maybach moniker, the GLS should probably up that amount even more to keep up with the Bentley, which will be designed from the ground up to be the most luxurious SUV on the planet. Either way, Mercedes Mercedes-Benz is obviously no stranger to ultra-luxury features, so the only question remaining is how distinctive the Mercedes-Maybach GLS will be compared to the standard model.
